A new NFL collective-bargaining agreement could reportedly be approved in the coming weeks. And it is expected to include a provision for playoff expansion.
Seven teams from each conference would make the playoffs as opposed to the six teams that make the postseason under the current structure. Only the top seed from each conference would receive a first-round bye.
According to the report, both the team owners and players are on board with the proposal.
The proposed change would take place immediately for the 2020 season.
Owners are also continuing to push for regular-season expansion to a 17-game schedule while shortening the preseason from four games to three according to the report. It’s unclear where the NFLPA stands in negotiations on the proposed expanded regular season.
If agreed upon, the 17-game regular season wouldn’t apply until 2021.
